I often write about the benefits of creating an online course and selling them. It’s a fantastic way to build a passive income and potentially a full-time business.

However, this business model is a double-edged sword. In fact, it can be dangerous. Specifically, dangerous to your credibility.

The business model for creating and selling online courses is simple (as in straight-forward), but the execution is not as easy.

Many people have dreams of creating and selling a large library of courses only to find out that creating just one course is extremely time-consuming.

Ultimately they don’t follow-through. Of course, there is nothing harmful about this – it happens and nothing is lost except perhaps the initial time.

Selling elearning can be dangerous when proper time isn’t put into the course creation process.

People are smart. If you sell a course and it doesn’t feel complete, they will not be happy.

The growth of elearning use today is the reason for this. Expectations have been on the rise. A course that cuts corners can be damaging to you and your reputation.

If your course is related to your area of profession this can be dangerous. The last thing you want is for one of your courses to tarnish your reputation in your field.

By no means does this mean you should avoid creating and selling a course. If you have valuable knowledge to share then you should pursue this industry – it can be quite rewarding.

This is merely a reminder that your final product can’t be rushed. Don’t settle for “good enough” or your customers will view it in the same way.

Put in the time and be patient. Your courses will be better, your customers happier, and you’ll be more successful.